The Daleks are one of the classic villains from the iconic BBC series, Doctor Who. They were originally conceived by sci-fi writer Terry Nation for the 1963 episode, The Daleks, and have appeared in many, many variations in many more episodes over the last 50 years. The design of the Daleks was done by Raymond Cusick, who died this week at age 84.

The Dalek’s electronic voice crying “Exterminate!” has become a pop culture touch point in England, and has spread world wide with the expanding notoriety of the show. The show is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

I first met the Daleks watching the London Olympics last summer. They peppered the opening ceremonies with cultural icons … including having the torch procession go by Daleks set in London. Just like on the TV show. It wasn’t until after I started Doctor Who, and became a fan, that I understood what those funny looking things were.

Raymond Cusick with his creation.

2010’s New Paradigm variants has a casing of a different colour, representing their role in Dalek society: red, Drone; blue, Strategist; orange, Scientist; yellow, Eternal and white, Supreme.

The 10th Doctor, Donna Noble, and a Supreme Dalek

Mickey, Rose Tyler, and the 10th Doctor.

The 11th Dcotor, with Rory and Amy, battled the Daleks many times.

The Doctor’s latest companion, Clara Oswin Oswald, was first introduced AS a Dalek, and explaining that plot wrinkle was the teaser at the end of her first episode as a companion.

The Daleks, just as they appeared during the Olympics opening ceremony.